Specialties

Dr. James Pritchett is one of Seattle’s most renowned joint specialists, and has been in practice for over 20 years. Whenever possible, Dr. Pritchett recommends non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments to address arthritis, injuries, and other conditions affecting the joints.

If surgery is necessary to restore range of motion in the joint and allow patients to resume their normal lifestyles, Dr. Pritchett will employ the latest surgical techniques. This may include minimally invasive resurfacing techniques, robotic-assisted surgery, and new surgical approaches that make recovery easier on patients.

Learn more about Dr. Pritchett’s specialties below. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Pritchett, please call our office at (206) 323-1900.

Total Hip Replacement

Conditions like arthritis can cause the protective cartilage in the hip to wear away to the point that the bone begins rubbing together. As arthritis progresses, the damage to the hip joint may be so severe that pain and stiffness affect even simple activities and non-surgical treatments no longer help. For these patients, total hip replacement may be an option. Dr. Pritchett is experienced in the latest advances in total hip replacement, including the superior and anterior approaches. These techniques provide better results in recovery than traditional approaches by lowering the risk of dislocation, limiting postoperative pain, and allowing patients to begin moving around sooner after surgery.

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Hip Resurfacing

Hip resurfacing may be an option for some patients with hip arthritis. Patients that are younger with healthy, strong bone may benefit from hip resurfacing. Because this procedure preserves more of the patient’s natural hip, it often leads to a more natural fit of the joint components and a greater range of motion and stability in the hip. This allows patients to continue with more active lifestyles after surgery. When possible, Dr. Pritchett uses advanced techniques like robotic-assisted surgery to provide the best possible results.

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Partial Knee Replacement

Knee arthritis can limit range of motion and cause a significant amount of pain. As arthritis progresses, nonsurgical treatments may not be effective in relieving pain. Knee replacement surgery can help restore a patient’s range of motion in the knee, helping them return to normal activities without pain. Partial knee replacement is a minimally invasive form of knee replacement surgery that may be an option for patients whose arthritis is limited to just one section of the knee. Partial knee replacement leaves the healthy parts of the joint intact, rather than replacing the entire joint with implants.

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Total Knee Replacement

If a patient has severe knee arthritis, but is not a candidate for partial knee replacement, Dr. Pritchett may recommend a total knee replacement. During a total knee replacement, Dr. Pritchett replaces the entire knee joint with implants designed to mimic normal joint motion. Dr. Pritchett is experienced in the latest advances in total knee replacement, including robotic knee surgery, cruciate retaining knee implants, and minimally invasive techniques, to improve the recovery process and long-term results for knee replacement patients.

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Shoulder Resurfacing

Shoulder resurfacing can be a great option for younger, more active patients who suffer from shoulder arthritis. Shoulder resurfacing involves resurfacing the ball-shaped head of the humerus (upper arm) with a cap-like prosthetic, rather than completely replacing it with an implant. The shoulder socket can also be resurfaced, if needed. Dr. Pritchett typically recommends this procedure for patients who still have good bone quality in the shoulder.

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Total Shoulder Replacement

If non-surgical treatments do not help with shoulder arthritis symptoms and the patient is older and/or does not have good bone quality, Dr. Pritchett may recommend a total shoulder replacement. A total shoulder replacement involves removing and replacing the head of the humerus (upper arm) with a prosthetic implant, and replacing the shoulder socket with implants. This will allow for improved function and greater range of motion in the shoulder.

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Outpatient Joint Replacement

Dr. Pritchett performs the majority of his joint replacement procedures in an outpatient ambulatory surgical center. There are several benefits to outpatient surgery, including recovering in the comfort of your own home, lower risk of blood clots, lower infection rates, and potential cost savings. Dr. Pritchett has been performing outpatient joint replacments for the entirety of his 35-year career, and always makes sure patients and their caregivers are well-prepared for outpatient surgery and the recovery period.

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Joint Replacement Options for Metal Sensitive Patients

Metal allergies or sensitivities can be a concern for patients who need a hip, knee, or shoulder replacement. If metal implants are a concern, Dr. Pritchett offers ceramic-coated titanium implants and has done so for over 25 years. These implants offer the durability of a metal implant, with a ceramic coating that prevents the metal from coming into contact with the soft tissues and weight bearing surfaces in the body. In addition to providing a solution for metal sensitivities, ceramic implants also tend to have superior wear characteristics compared to metal implants.

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Surgery for Nerve Injuries

Nerves in the operative area can sometimes be accidentally injured during a hip replacement. If a nerve injury occurs, there are several different surgical procedures that can be done to relieve pain or restore lost function, depending on the patient's needs.

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Superior Approach for Hip Implant Surgery Injuries

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Two Operating Rooms

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Robotic Assisted Surgery

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